Graduated Tax Petition

We, the undersigned, oppose the Democrats' Graduated Income Tax proposal. Under current Illinois law, the individual income tax rate will be 3.75 percent in 2015. Under a new plan, however, a higher 4 percent rate kicks in for people earning just $18,000. That income tax rate targets Illinois’ working class.

726 reactions

Laura Crawford signed
2014-03-10 15:10:07 -0500

Dear Members of the 98th General Assembly:

This letter comes to you from several chambers located in and around the western suburbs of northern Illinois, representing almost 10,000 businesses. With the State’s ‘temporary’ 67 percent tax increase set to expire in 2015 and the proposal to replace that revenue, an amendment to change the constitution allowing for a graduated or progressive tax explains the genesis of this letter.

In an effort to educate their members, several Chambers have attended and hosted non-partisan hearings on this issue. After much discovery and discussion, we hold the consensus that this tax format is bad for business and bad for Illinois. To be clear, we collectively oppose the proposition of a constitutional amendment allowing a graduated or progressive income tax.

There are more than 7,000 S corporations in the area we represent. These small businesses will be most severely impacted as they claim their business profit on their personal income tax return. Do not lose sight that these S corporations employ people. With more oppressive taxes, business owners will continue to migrate leaving those who stay in Illinois, unemployed. Illinois has the second highest migration statistic in the United States and one of the three highest unemployment rates. These statistics are not ones in which we should continue to aspire; you have an opportunity to reverse this trend.

Furthermore, this proposal is moving forward without official plans or set rates. This is not what small business owners deserve. It is also incomprehensible that a new tax be implemented and not directly associated with accountability to reduce expenses.

It is imperative that the 98th General Assembly of the State of Illinois, oppose this onerous proposal to amend the constitution allowing for a progressive tax. Please feel free to contact any of the signees below if you have any questions.

Sincerely,

Laura Crawford, President & CEO Tom Althoff, President & CEO

Downers Grove Area Chamber of Commerce & Ind. Lisle Area Chamber of Commerce

No tax increases period. 67% increase SHOULDNOT be permanent. Madigan is a WEASEL!

Thomas Forsyth signed
2014-03-09 21:52:13 -0500

Illinois does not need more income tax from its citizens. Our representatives need to do a better job of budgeting the current revenue they manage and then sticking to that budget. Stop funding special interest groups; let the working people keep their income and spend it on the initiatives in which they believe.

Contact Jim Durkin

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